My Month in Moments - March 2020
What a weird month. I am prone to being hyperbolic, but I’m at a loss for how to describe how surreal the past few weeks have been. So many people in my life have been affected by COVID-19, whether it’s through layoffs or their job security being at risk, or their mental health or physical health.
I am so grateful to all the healthcare workers and essential workers keeping our society safe and functioning. Thank you for all that you do.
I’ve been taking things day by day and finding the silver linings where I can. I also had a pretty kickass month before we went into lockdown. More on that at the end of this post. But first:
I’m sorry for disappearing for a month – and after being so consistent for so long! I stepped back at first to re-evaluate how I was spending my time.
I was working 10, sometimes 12 hours a day, and spending any free time I had working on my blog or IGTV videos. There was very little time left over to see loved ones, and refill my creative tank. And without creativity and support…I lost my joy for this space.
I also went through a phase of feeling shame and embarrassment that this is still a “hobby blog”. I’ve had people ask me more often if I make money from this, and the answer is no. Content creation is not an easy career to make money from, and it’s that much harder when trying to juggle it with a very demanding corporate job. Kudos to those that can make it work! But that’s not me.
And because I’m not making money from this, it seemed like a silly thing to do. To spend so much time on something that didn’t at least provide some padding in my bank account.
I’ve spent the past month reflecting on this and changing my perspective a little. I think I am perhaps running myself ragged (something I do a lot) and might need to pull back on how much pressure I put on myself with blogging and videos. But I also don’t think I should feel embarrassed about using this space as a creative outlet for my passion, instead of a side hustle. Maybe that will come. But it’s ok if it doesn’t. There’s joy in creating, which doesn’t have to be valued by dollars and cents.
A few highlights from this month, because boy do we ever need some light right now:
Toronto Vintage Clothing Show
Hard to believe that this was less than a month ago – it feels like a lifetime! My cousin and I hit up the spring TVCS, and spent the whole day perusing the stalls and scoring some GREAT deals. I also posted a haul video on what I picked up at the fall 2019 show (see above) - look for the spring haul soon! Help a friend out and go give my IG a follow and maybe a like or two <3
The last few dinners out before social distancing
Before Toronto went into lockdown, I managed to spend a couple of evenings out. I went to Byblos with some gals I work with, and it was a really nice bonding sesh :) I’ve written about the importance of having friends at work before – it just makes the time spent so much more enjoyable! Byblos was also FAB. I don’t usually eat lamb, like ever, but the lamb ribs were out of this world amazing (remember me, Miss Hyperbole! But they really are epic ribs :) ).
I also went to Reign at the Fairmont with another girlfriend, and loved it. The service was top notch, and they were able to accommodate my friend who is vegan with some tasty dishes. The best part of the meal for me were the cocktails – they were exceptional. I recommend the “Royal Calling” and “Plight of the bumblebee”. Thank me later ;)
Chris Morocco’s Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
One activity I am glad to have found my way back to in social distancing is baking! I had a craving for a really good chocolate chip cookie, and because Craig’sdoesn’t deliver to my parents’ house, I figured I could try my hand at making some myself.
I followed the recipe and accompanying video of Chris Morocco scientifically explaining each step, and managed to brown butter for the first time, and produce some GOOD ASS COOKIES. They’re not picture perfect, but they taste like the best chocolate chip cookie.
Following up with a post soon to share more of how I’ve been getting through social distancing. Sending you all so much love, light, and positive thoughts. If you’re alone, or just feeling down, please reach out. I’m here for you. Whether we’re best friends, or you’re a silent reader :)